Does Walgreens Cash Checks? What To Know Before You Go
Written by
Rudri Bhatt Patel, CFHC™
Edited by
Joe Evans
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If you’re searching “does Walgreens cash checks”, here’s the short answer: No, Walgreens doesn’t cash personal, payroll or government checks at its retail locations.
Walgreens stores offer many financial services, including bill pay and money transfers through Western Union, but check cashing isn’t one of them.
According to Walgreens customer service and in-store policy information, check-cashing services aren’t available at pharmacy registers or photo counters.
What Walgreens Doesn’t Offer
- No personal check cashing
- No payroll check cashing
- No government check cashing
What Walgreens Does Offer
- Money transfers through Western Union
- Debit and credit card payments
- Reloadable prepaid card services (at many locations)
Bottom Line: If you need to cash a check, you’ll need to go somewhere else — but Walgreens can still help with certain money transfer services.
Why Doesn’t Walgreens Cash Checks?
Many large retailers don’t offer check-cashing services because:
- It increases fraud risk
- It requires additional verification systems
- It exposes stores to financial liability
The Federal Trade Commission warns that check fraud remains common, especially with counterfeit cashier’s checks and payroll checks.
Instead of offering check cashing, Walgreens partners with Western Union for money transfer services.
What Financial Services Does Walgreens Offer?
While Walgreens doesn’t cash checks, it may offer:
Western Union Money Transfers
Send and receive money at participating locations (Western Union).
Bill Payment Services
Some stores allow bill payments through third-party processors.
Reloadable Prepaid Cards
Walgreens sells and reloads certain prepaid debit cards. For check cashing specifically, you’ll need another option.
Where Can You Cash a Check Instead?
If you need to cash a check immediately, here are better alternatives:
1. The Bank That Issued the Check
This is often the fastest and cheapest option. The issuing bank can verify funds instantly.
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau notes that banks may charge non-customer fees, but they’re often lower than check-cashing stores.
2. Your Own Bank or Credit Union
If you have an account, you may receive same-day or next-day access to funds depending on the deposit amount.
Under Regulation CC from the Federal Reserve, banks must make at least part of many check deposits available by the next business day.
3. Walmart
Walmart offers check-cashing services at many locations. Fees vary based on the check amount and type.
4. Grocery Stores
Some regional grocery chains offer check-cashing at customer service desks.
5. Check-Cashing Stores
These locations provide immediate access to cash but usually charge higher percentage-based fees, sometimes up to 10% or more, depending on the state (CFPB).
Why It Can Help You
- Faster access to funds
- Ability to compare fee options
- Avoid unnecessary trips to stores that don’t offer the service
What To Watch Out For
- High percentage-based check-cashing fees
- Fake check scams (FTC warns this is common)
- Long hold times for large deposits
- Non-customer bank fees
Before handing over your check, always ask about the exact fee.
Quick Decision Guide: Where Should You Go?
Want the Lowest Fee?
Start with the bank that issued the check.They can verify funds immediately and may charge less than third-party services.
Need Physical Cash Today?
Try Walmart or a grocery store before heading to a check-cashing outlet.Retailers often charge lower flat fees than percentage-based check-cashing stores.
Already Have a Bank Account?
Deposit the check at your bank and ask about same-day or next-day availability.You may get at least partial access quickly under federal funds availability rules.
Final Thoughts to GO
So, does Walgreens cash checks? No — Walgreens doesn’t offer check-cashing services at its stores.
If you need to cash a check quickly, your best options are the issuing bank, your own bank or a retailer like Walmart. Check-cashing stores are available in a pinch, but fees can add up fast.
Before you go, call ahead or check the store’s website to confirm services and always compare fees so you keep more of your money.
FAQ
If you’re wondering whether Walgreens offers check-cashing services, here are answers to common questions.- Does Walgreens cash personal checks?
- No. Walgreens does not cash personal, payroll or government checks.
- Can I cash a check at Walgreens through Western Union?
- No. Western Union services at Walgreens handle money transfers, not check cashing.
- Where can I cash a check near Walgreens?
- You can try the issuing bank, your own bank, Walmart or a grocery store that offers check-cashing services.
- Does Walgreens accept checks for purchases?
- Acceptance policies may vary by location. Contact your local store for details.
- What’s the cheapest place to cash a check?
- The issuing bank or your own bank is usually the lowest-cost option.
Data is accurate as of Feb. 19, 2026, and is subject to change.
Our in-house research team and on-site financial experts work together to create content that’s accurate, impartial, and up to date. We fact-check every single statistic, quote and fact using trusted primary resources to make sure the information we provide is correct. You can learn more about GOBankingRates’ processes and standards in our editorial policy.
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau "Can I cash a check at any bank or credit union?"
- U.S. Federal Trade Commission "How To Spot, Avoid, and Report Fake Check Scams"
- U.S. Federal Trade Commission "Regulation CC (Availability of Funds and Collection of Checks)"
